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Alkaff Mansion Ristorante – Grande Italia On The Hill

Alkaff Mansion originally built in 1918 was a colonial weekend bungalow owned by a member of the prominent Alkaff family. The two storey Tudor style mansion nestled atop the Telok Blangah Hill (formerly Mount Washington) was known for hosting many high society parties in the 1930s. (History about Alkaff Mansion)

Alkaff Mansion has been the event venue for many Corporate parties and private events, Dinner & Dances, Fashion shows and including lavish weddings were held at this majestic estate. The outdoor lawn (as you see in the photo above) has the perfect setting for a romantic garden wedding at sunset.

The main mansion (first floor – 60 seats) features an elegant Italian restaurant serving quality Italian cuisine with a fine selection of wines mostly from Italy and France.

The second floor of the Alkaff Mansion Ristorante and Bar 1918 can seat up to 180 persons and include four private dining rooms. Guests in the mood for al fresco dining can enjoy their meals at the verandah (64 seats).

LHN Culinary Concepts took over the charming Alkaff Mansion in 2009, and have invested $5 million to refurbish this iconic heritage mansion into a unique winning dining location.

Alkaff Mansion Ristorante recently introduced a new and exciting Italian-inspired menu executed by the newly appointed Executive Chef, Simone Depalmas to showcase his Sardinian influences and 20 years of culinary experience in Italian fare.

ChefSimone Depalmas is also responsible for all the event catering for weddings and events held at Alkaff Mansion Ristorante. Wedding couples and their guests can look forward to unique dishes created by Chef Depalmas and his dedicated team, using quality fresh produce and making sauces from scratch to retain the natural flavours of authentic Italian cuisine.

Apart from the main dining room, the newly built outdoor Grand Marquee (seat up to 400 pax / standing 600 pax) that is fully carpeted and air-conditioned, can be customised and use for large corporate events or private parties.

THE FOOD

Fresh Octopus Carpaccio ($24)

From the list of Antipasti, we started off with the Fresh Octopus Carpaccio ($24) comprising delicate silvers of Sardinian octopus and frisee salad with a drizzle of balsamic reduction. To be honest, I am not a big fan of octopus or squids unless they are prepared deep fried, but this antipasti simply won my vote.

The octopus were thinly sliced and lightly steamed, the San Marzano cherry tomatoes and orange wedges added a sweet and tangy finish to the salad, which makes it very flavourful but delicate on the palate.

The second Antipasti – the Seafood Platter ($68) was an absolute indulgence. The platter features five different type of seafood items that is perfect for two to share. Tiger prawns, Tuna tartare, Sea bass carpaccio, Octopus salad and Lobster chunks were dressed with zesty citrus vinaigrette. The seafood platter was packed with tons of fresh seafood. I would definitely recommend this for everyone who comes to Alkaff Mansion Ristorante to order this.

Moving on to Le Paste, the pasta selection.

Sardinian Pasta (Fregola) with Assorted Seafood ($28)

Chef Depalmas uses Fregola, a type of pasta formed into small balls which is a speciality of his hometown Sardinia. The grainy pasta was steeped in a savoury seafood medley of clams, prawns, squid and scallops.

Although this might be the best well known Sardinian dish made from it, I would prefer the pasta to be delicate strands of spaghetti for a better “bite”. The other signature Homemade Squid Ink Tagliatelle ($32) probably will be a better option.

Porcini Mushroom Risotto Superfino Acquerello with Thyme ($28)

Risotto has never been particularly photogenic, and this certainly come as no surprise.Picture could never do justice to this classic dish. The “designer” grains were flawlessly al dente, it absorbs the aromatic truffle and rich flavour of the mushrooms well, this dish was a guaranteed winner.

Oven Baked Lamb Rack ($45)

The lamb was cooked to medium and paired with celeriac mash, which was commonly mistaken as potato mash as the texture was velvety smooth alike. Chef Depalmas added caramelised pearl onions and homemade prune sauce to make the lamb even richer and more flavourful. The lamb was delicious but the only varying flavour profile was the spicy aftertaste of the sauce that caused some of us thinking what was the spice used. Conversations and investigations were seen going around the table, but to no answers, leaving a mystery.

Slow Cooked Sardinian Style Suckling Pig ($46)

The entire table went crazy over this slow cooked suckling pig. The pork takes a long time to roast at 70 degrees celsius and is labour intensive to obtain the delicate crispy skin, while ensuring the flesh is tender and moist. The pork was complemented with roasted potatoes and homemade mixed berry compote that added great richness to the pork, there was no leftover.Customers who are adventurous can pamper yourself with Jilly’s Surprise Plate, a special dish created by Jilly Wang, the owner and Chef each month.

Fresh Mint Vanilla Panna Cotta ($14)

Sweet Italian treats are just what you need after a hearty meal. The signature Alkaff Mansion Tiramisu ($14) will be something good to hit the tongue. But I am having the Fresh Mint Vanilla Panna Cotta ($14) paired with mixed berry sauce for the balance of flavours and texture.

The panna cotta tastes as good as it looks. Being a big fan of mint, I am showing all my love to this dessert. The cooling fresh mint cuts through the richness of the creamy vanilla dessert, I wouldn’t mind having a second serving.

On lazy weekends especially on Sundays and Public Holidays, you can indulge in a delightful Sunday Prosecco Brunch at Alkaff Mansion Ristorante and sip unlimited Prosecco while you having a gastronomic Italian buffet spread at only $88.

Casual outdoor a la carte brunch offering a selection of breakfast, pasta and pizza are available. Not forgetting Bar 1918, at the second floor of the mansion proffers a selection of drinks in the way of signature cocktails, beers, wines, champagnes and single malts. VERDICT

Great ambience and food that will work its magic for a romantic date. Love the tranquil surroundings that free me away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

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